5-Night Sailing Itinerary in San Blas
With additional time at sea, this journey pushes beyond the Dutch Cays into the legendary Coco Bandero Cays (Zone 3). Expect longer snorkel sessions, fewer boat encounters, and nights anchored beneath star-filled skies.
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Customization
2) Itineraries are flexible. You’re welcome to suggest islands of interest, even if they differ from the proposed plan.
Who Should Choose This 5-Night San Blas Sailing Trip
This itinerary blends adventure sailing with unhurried island time, creating a deeper connection to the San Blas archipelago.
Choose the 5-night itinerary if you:
Want to explore Zones 1, 2, and 3 of the San Blas Islands
Dream of snorkeling pristine, less-visited reefs
Enjoy longer sails and open-water passages
Prefer quiet anchorages far from day-trip traffic
Arrival Options
You can reach San Blas in two ways:
Option 1: 4×4 Transfer from Panama City
Travel by 4×4 vehicle from Panama City to Porvenir Port, followed by a boat transfer to your catamaran. The cost is USD 150 per guest (roundtrip), and we’ll take care of coordinating the transportation for you.
Option 2: Flight to San Blas
Fly from Albrook Airport to Corazón de Jesús Airstrip, followed by a short 2-minute dinghy transfer to your catamaran. Flight prices vary depending on availability and the season you’re visiting San Blas. Please contact us to confirm the current quote.
Tip: Have your camera ready—the aerial views of the San Blas Islands are unforgettable.
Transfer to San Blas
- Entrance Fee: Upon landing in San Blas, you’ll present your passport and pay the Guna Yala entrance fee of USD 22 per person, collected by local authorities (USD 20 entrance to Guna Yala + USD 2 Carti Port).
- Transfer to the Catamaran: Shortly after, your captain will meet you at the airstrip and escort you by dinghy to your catamaran, anchored just offshore. Once on board, your San Blas sailing experience begins.
Itinerary Overview
The 5-night San Blas sailing itinerary is designed for travelers who want to experience the islands at their most remote and untouched.
See you at the marina!
Arrival at Cartí
Meet your captain, board the catamaran, and receive a short safety briefing before beginning your sailing journey through the Guna Yala archipelago.
Welcome to the San Blas Islands!
Day 1
Our first major stop
ZONE 1: The Inner Cays (Cayos Limones)
Begin your journey in the Inner Cays (Zone 1), where calm waters and nearby islands ease you into life onboard. Enjoy swimming, paddleboarding, and your first sunset over the San Blas Islands.
Our first major stop
Zone 1: Shipwrecks & Shallow Reefs
After breakfast, the catamaran sails between nearby islands such as Isla Perro or Isla Chichime. Snorkel over coral reefs and the famous shipwreck before relaxing on palm-lined beaches. The day ends with a peaceful anchorage and dinner under the stars.
Day 2
Day 3
A true Nomad Sailors favorite!
ZONE 2: Sail to the Dutch Cays
Set sail for the Dutch Cays (Zone 2) on a scenic open-water crossing. Explore uninhabited islands, vibrant reefs, and turquoise lagoons. The afternoon offers excellent conditions for snorkeling, spearfishing and beach walks.
Next, we sail to the Holandes Cays.
Zone 3: Coco Bandero Cays
Continue east into the Coco Bandero Cays (Zone 3), a tight cluster of islands protected by a massive horseshoe reef. This area delivers some of the best snorkeling in the San Blas Islands, along with exceptional stargazing in total isolation.
Day 4
Day 5
Our Final Stop.
ZONE 3: EXPLORATION
Spend a full day enjoying the Coco Bandero region. Swim above untouched coral gardens, relax on empty beaches, or paddle along shallow lagoons. With no crowds and minimal boat traffic, this day defines the spirit of deep exploration.
The Return Sail
Return Sail & Farewell
Begin the journey back toward the Inner Cays with a relaxed morning sail. After a final swim and breakfast onboard, disembark with a sense of accomplishment and unforgettable memories of San Blas at its wildest.
Day 6
Recommended Charters
Below you’ll find sailboats and catamarans that operate in the San Blas Islands and are well suited for a 5-night sailing itinerary.
- Choose between private charters for full flexibility and comfort, or shared charters if you’re booking a cabin and traveling
- Each listed vessel includes a professional captain, onboard meals, and equipment for snorkeling and water activities.
Private Charters
A private charter means booking the entire boat exclusively for you and your group, with full privacy.
Shared Charters
A shared charter means booking a private cabin on board while sharing the boat’s common areas, activities, and sailing experience with other travelers.